Justice in Mining: Protecting human rights and the environment

30 September 2016

Justice in Mining is a Global Ignatian Advocacy Network that works to protect human rights and the environment, and seeks to ensure mining only occurs where issues of equity and sustainability are addressed.

Its new website, launched on 31 July 2016, Feast Day of Saint Ignatius, builds on its Facebook presence, and is part of a communications strategy to help build awareness of human rights and environmental issues relating to mining.

The network is guided by Catholic Social Teaching, its Ignatian heritage, and Jesuit justice tradition, collaborating with other advocates around the globe in working towards a fairer and wiser use of the world’s limited resources. It supports and advocates on behalf of local communities affected by mining activities, and lobbies on human rights issues where appropriate. The network recognizes that the materials extracted through mining are used in a variety of useful and positive ways, but also urges society to be prudent its use of the earth’s resources.

“One of the network’s initial priorities is to raise awareness within the Jesuit community around some of the concerning consequences of mining projects, and build a determination amongst supporters to take action where possible to protect the rights of those affected,” said Julie Edwards, leader of the Justice in Mining network. “The network promotes fair treatment of local communities, protection and rehabilitation of the environment as much as possible, adequate protection of human rights, and wiser and more thoughtful use of the world’s limited resources,” she added.

A Jesuit network is well-placed to contribute to advocacy and engagement around the impact of mining, thanks to a presence of Jesuits and Jesuit institutions in 112 countries on six continents, including many schools and universities. By working together, sharing expertise, experience and resources, the Jesuit community can play its part in working for a more just society and a healthier world.

The website includes a link allowing visitors to sign up to receive newsletter updates, useful background material around ethical investment, news of campaigns and advice on how to become involved in the network’s activities.